Yamaha
YZF-R1S
Yamaha
has finally ended the rumours and released the third variant of the YZF-R1
which would be called the 2016 YZF-R1S. The latest R1S is the lowest end
variant of the three and would be the new base model for the range.
The
purpose of the Yamaha R1S is to make ownership of the new supersport from
Yamaha a bit more affordable to the buyers. Instead of boasting a price tag of US$ 16,490 (For the R1), the R1S will be sold for a much more affordable US$ 14,990.
Good news is that the R1S would retain most of its track goodness while some of
the exotic parts and materials will be take off the bike.
As
a result of the reduction in costs, the R1S looses out on many magnesium and
titanium parts that are present on the R1 and R1M. The magnesium oil pan,
engine covers and wheels are replaced with steel ones, which is also the new
material that replaces titanium for the connecting rods and exhaust headers.
Due to this change, the 2016 R1S gains a hefty 9 lbs (4.10 kg). And
unfortunately due to the steel connecting rods and a slightly revised valve
design, the R1 looses out on some power too (Yamaha has not divulged the specs
at this moment). Further, the R1S also gets more road-focused Bridgestone S20
rubber, instead of the Bridgestone Battlax RS10.
Thankfully,
Yamaha has retained everything else, such as the suspensions, chassis and
electronics package (quickshifter is optional), meaning that the R1S while
being heaver and a bit lumpier, will get to be a hoot on the track.
The
new Yamaha YZF-R1S will be available starting February 2016 along with the rest
of the 2016 Yamaha R1 line and would be available in two colours, matte grey
and an exclusive “Intensity White/Raven/Rapid Red” colour.
